As the global energy landscape shifts toward sustainability, Sri Lanka is taking a significant step forward with its pioneering Maha Oya Pumped Storage Hydropower Project.
This innovative venture is set to revolutionize the country’s renewable energy sector, offering a stable and efficient solution for integrating solar and wind power into the national grid. The project underscores Sri Lanka’s commitment to a greener future by reducing dependence on fossil fuels and ensuring long-term energy security.
The initiative aligns with the country’s ambitious goal of sourcing 70% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030. By adopting advanced energy storage solutions, Sri Lanka is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable development while creating new opportunities for economic growth and environmental conservation.
The Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) has announced that it is making substantial progress in launching the Maha Oya Pumped Storage Hydropower Project, marking Sri Lanka’s first-ever large-scale energy storage system, often referred to as a “Water Battery.” This 600 MW project is designed to store surplus energy generated from solar and wind sources, enhancing grid stability and maximizing renewable energy utilization.
Situated in Aranayake and Nawalapitiya, the project will consist of two reservoirs linked by a 2.5 km tunnel. By leveraging this pumped storage technology, Sri Lanka aims to mitigate the challenges posed by intermittent renewable energy generation, ultimately reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering carbon emissions.
During a recent discussion with international development partners, the CEB introduced a financial framework for the project. The board is actively seeking long-term funding from global agencies to minimize the financial impact on electricity tariffs and ensure cost-effective energy solutions for consumers. This funding strategy is expected to make the transition to renewable energy more economically viable for the nation.
Beyond enhancing energy security, the Maha Oya project is anticipated to drive economic growth by generating employment opportunities and fostering technological advancements in the renewable energy sector. It also aligns with Sri Lanka’s broader vision of achieving energy independence through sustainable and innovative solutions.
According to the CEB’s Least Cost Long Term Generation Expansion Plan (LCLTGEP) for 2018-2037, three 200 MW pumped storage hydropower plants were initially scheduled for development, starting in 2025. However, the latest revision for 2022-2041 has adjusted the timeline, shifting the launch of the first plant to 2029.
The concept of incorporating pumped storage hydropower plants (PSHPs) into Sri Lanka’s energy system was first identified in a 2015 study conducted by the CEB in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). The study, titled “Development Planning on Optimal Power Generation for Peak Power Demand in Sri Lanka,” highlighted the need for such projects to support the country’s growing renewable energy infrastructure.
PSHPs serve as an effective energy storage mechanism at the grid level, providing frequency control and stabilizing intermittent renewable power generation. By storing energy during low-demand periods and supplying it during peak hours, these plants play a crucial role in balancing the power supply and demand. Additionally, they enhance system stability by adding mechanical inertia, ensuring a more resilient and efficient electricity network.The CEB is calling on all stakeholders to support this transformative project, recognizing its potential to shape a greener, more sustainable energy future for Sri Lanka. Through strategic investment and collaborative efforts, the country is well on its way to achieving a robust and environmentally responsible power sector
